The Republican Legacy Podcast

Ep. 12 - Rep. Don Bacon

Our Republican Legacy — Sat, 12 Sep 2026 10:57:16 GMT

In this special edition of The Republican Legacy Podcast, Chris Vance and Lynn Schmidt are joined by Congressman Don Bacon (R-NE), retired Air Force Brigadier General and one of Congress’s leading bipartisan voices, along with Courage Can Save Us author and With Honor CEO Rye Barcott and Bacon’s longtime Chief of Staff Mark Dreiling. They discuss the role courage has played throughout Bacon’s life and career, how military service shaped his approach to leadership, the political cost of putting principle ahead of party, and why relationships, civility, and bipartisanship still matter in Congress.

The conversation also explores what it means to be a “legacy Republican,” the future of traditional Republican principles, America’s role in the world, and what the next generation can learn from leaders willing to stand against political pressure. Then, Bacon answers the question many within Our Republican Legacy have been asking: Would he consider running for President in 2028? He discusses what he believes the country needs from its next president and his desire to help build a Republican Party grounded in decency, free enterprise, peace through strength, fiscal responsibility, and constitutional leadership.

Chapters

0:00 Introduction and guest overview

4:00 Personal reflections and the story behind the book

6:37 Military service shaping congressional approach

7:58 Service before self in modern politics

9:38 Respect for election results and political integrity

10:41 Dealing with social-media pressure and public backlash

12:59 Trust and relationships across party lines

14:46 The bipartisan veterans caucus and its significance

17:22 Decisions, character, and leadership in Congress

19:13 Congressman Bacon’s approach to difficult choices

21:08 Principled stands and political risks

23:01 Legacy Republican values and the party’s direction

24:59 Civility and respect in politics

27:27 Bipartisanship among congressional staff

31:03 Future service and the next generation of leaders

34:53 Congressman Bacon’s plans after Congress

37:47 Courage in public life today

41:33 Historical examples of courage

42:58 What true courage looks like

44:25 Closing remarks and call to action

Links

Ep. 11 - Juan Willams

Our Republican Legacy — Sat, 22 Aug 2026 08:00:00 GMT

Ep. 11 - Juan Williams

In Episode 11 of The Republican Legacy Podcast, hosts Chris Vance and Merrill Matthews welcome back ORL Connecticut Chair Tommy Whiteley for a Week in Review discussion about the state of the Republican Party heading into the 2026 midterm elections. The panel examines whether Donald Trump’s influence over Republican voters may be weakening, the national debt surpassing $40 trillion, the GOP’s retreat from fiscal responsibility, tariffs and inflation, the looming Social Security funding crisis, turmoil inside the White House, and signs that Republicans could face a significant backlash in November.

Later, the panel is joined by veteran journalist and Fox News political analyst Juan Williams, author of New Prize for These Eyes: The Rise of America’s Second Civil Rights Movement. Williams discusses America’s progress on civil rights and the challenges that remain, the Republican Party’s historic role as the party of civil rights, the politics of division and grievance, and the rise of political extremes on both sides. The conversation also explores election integrity, education and opportunity, and whether a new generation of Republicans can build a winning movement centered on unity, patriotism, and the party’s traditional principles.

Chapters

00:00 – Welcome & Is Trump’s Hold on the GOP Weakening?
04:02 – $40 Trillion Debt & the GOP’s Fiscal Responsibility Problem
08:07 – MAGA & Big-Government Republicanism
10:08 – Tariffs, Inflation & Social Security
13:27 – Turmoil Inside the Trump White House
16:40 – White House Credibility & the Political “Blood Sport”
21:34 – Midterms: Is a Blue Wave Coming?
24:08 – Warning Signs for Republicans Across the Country
25:43 – Juan Williams Joins the Podcast
26:06 – New Prize for These Eyes & America’s Civil Rights Story
28:44 – Today’s Civil Rights Challenges
33:17 – Civil Rights & the Next Generation
37:10 – The Republican Party’s Civil Rights Legacy
40:16 – Political Extremes & the Democratic Party
44:40 – Can Republicans Take Back the Party in 2028?
47:09 – Election Integrity & Reform
48:24 – Education, Opportunity & America’s Future

Links

Our Republican Legacy Website
The Latest ORL Media Hits
ORL’s Policy Statements
Make a Contribution to Our Republican Legacy
Merrill Matthews’ Latest Articles
Juan Williams on Facebook and X
Juan Williams’ Books

Ep. 10 - Rep. Steve Bartlett

Our Republican Legacy — Sun, 16 Aug 2026 17:53:29 GMT

In Episode 10 of The Republican Legacy Podcast, hosts Merrill Matthews, Lynn Schmidt, and Greg Wilson are joined by certified financial planner Paul Auslander, President of Seabridge Private Wealth, for a wide-ranging discussion about the economy, financial markets, and the importance of separating political noise from economic reality. Auslander discusses the independence of the Federal Reserve, inflation and interest rates, the national debt, the stock market's resilience, artificial intelligence, the growing dominance of major technology companies, and the balance between free enterprise and government intervention. The conversation also explores Americans moving from blue states to red states and what those demographic shifts could mean for future elections.

Later, Merrill and Greg are joined by former Congressman and Dallas Mayor Steve Bartlett, a founding member of Our Republican Legacy and author of AH HA! The Power and Purpose: Family, Faith and a Life Well Lived. Bartlett reflects on his career in local government, Congress, and the financial services industry, and shares lessons about leadership, purpose, persistence, and public service.

The conversation turns to the decline of bipartisanship in Congress, the importance of character and constitutional principles in public life, and the challenges facing Republicans who put governing and principle ahead of partisan loyalty. Bartlett also discusses why he became involved with Our Republican Legacy and what it will take to rebuild a Republican Party grounded in the rule of law, fiscal responsibility, free enterprise, and effective governing.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome and introduction of Paul Auslander

02:29 Investing through political and economic uncertainty

04:53 Lessons from Senators Moynihan and Danforth

06:31 Federal Reserve independence, inflation, and interest rates

09:48 What investors are watching in today’s market

12:01 AI, the Magnificent Seven, and market concentration

14:45 Free markets, industrial policy, and national security

17:11 Migration from blue states to red states

20:06 Florida, Texas, and the next elections

24:03 The biggest economic and geopolitical risks ahead

26:19 Introducing Steve Bartlett and The Power and Purpose

31:30 City politics and the changing political landscape

35:37 Why bipartisan governing has become so difficult

37:57 Rebuilding constitutional conservatism

43:52 Advice for future members of Congress

46:17 Banking regulation and the importance of enforcement

51:20 Is there reason for optimism about the country?

Links

Ep. 9 - Amb. Frank Lavin

Our Republican Legacy — Sat, 08 Aug 2026 16:16:29 GMT

Ep. 9 - Amb. Frank Lavin

In this episode of The Republican Legacy Podcast, hosts Chris Vance and Merrill Matthews talk with former U.S. Ambassador and Reagan White House official Frank Lavin, author of Inside the Reagan White House, who reflects on Ronald Reagan’s core legacy: market economics, international leadership, and respectful, optimistic communication. Lavin contrasts those principles with today’s grievance-driven politics, warns against protectionism, and weak U.S. leadership abroad.

The week in review segment features State Chairs Richard Sansing from New Hampshire and Justin Bingham from Maryland. The conversation covers the fight over tariffs, reactions to recent primary results in Michigan, Washington, Maryland, Texas, and Wisconsin, and a look at the 2028 landscape.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction of New Hampshire Chair Richard Sansing and Maryland Chair Justin Bingham

01:48 Reagan's core principles and their relevance today

04:57 The significance of New Hampshire in the 2024 primaries

06:58 Maryland's political landscape and Republican prospects

09:54 The controversy over Todd Blanche and judicial nominations

12:12 The debate over tariffs and trade policies

15:04 Economic impacts of tariffs and protectionism

17:58 The importance of free markets and global leadership

21:58 Primary elections and political trends in Michigan and Washington

23:50 Upcoming political developments and key issues to watch

24:01 Reagan's economic policies and free enterprise

27:29 Reagan's communication style and leadership qualities

29:28 The impact of social media on political discourse

30:00 The shift away from free trade and protectionism

31:18 Economic policies: tariffs and their effects

32:46 The importance of real-world economic experience

33:36 The dangers of government intervention and populism

34:36 Immigration policy and Reagan's legacy

35:13 The importance of border security and legal immigration

36:00 The role of rule of law in economic prosperity

37:14 The need for a balanced immigration system

38:28 The role of economists and populism

39:24 Grievance politics versus aspirational leadership

40:06 Adapting to technological and societal change

41:12 U.S. strategy in Asia and the importance of Singapore

43:34 U.S. policy towards Taiwan and China

44:13 About Frank Lavin's book and Reagan's legacy

45:11 Behind the scenes of the Reagan White House

45:43 The future of American leadership and foreign policy

Links

Ep.8 - Rep. Claudine Schneider

Our Republican Legacy — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 17:49:26 GMT

In this episode of The Republican Legacy Podcast, hosts Chris Vance and Lynn Schmidt welcome former Congresswoman Claudine Schneider of Rhode Island. Schneider reflects on her political journey, the founding principles of the Republican Party, and her work on election integrity and campaign finance reform. She discusses the importance of building a broad Republican coalition that includes moderate voices while addressing issues such as women’s rights, climate change, ethical governance, and the rule of law. The conversation also explores the growing challenges posed by misinformation and the importance of active civic and political engagement.

In the Week in Review segment, Chris, Lynn, and Dr. Merrill Matthews are joined by ORL Minnesota State Chair Michael Brodkorb to examine the latest political developments. The panel discusses Minnesota’s political landscape, the influence of the MAGA movement, the rise of political violence, fraud allegations involving members of Minnesota’s Somali community, growing concerns surrounding artificial intelligence and data centers, and the continuing erosion of public trust in institutions. They conclude with a look at the latest polling trends as the midterm elections approach and the challenges facing the Republican Party.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction of ORL Minnesota Chair Michael Brodkorb

01:24 Minnesota's Political Landscape and MAGA Turmoil

05:05 Political Violence and Its Impact on Minnesota

10:58 Fraud Allegations in the Somali Community

13:23 The Rise of AI and Data Centers in Politics

20:26 Eroding Trust in Institutions

23:02 Polling Trends and Upcoming Elections

31:23 A Journey Through Claudine Schneider’s Political Leadership

36:14 Founding Principles of the Republican Legacy

40:57 Election Integrity and Challenges

46:28 Campaign Finance Reform Efforts

50:52 Rebuilding the Republican Coalition

Links

Ep. 7 - Pollster Whit Ayres

Our Republican Legacy — Sat, 25 Jul 2026 15:49:35 GMT

In this episode, hosts Chris Vance and Dr. Merrill Matthews are joined by preeminent Republican pollster Whit Ayres as they delve into the latest across the political landscape. Whit shares his expertise on the upcoming 2024 midterm elections, potential control of Congress, the current state of the polling industry, and the future direction of the GOP leading into 2028.

In our Week in Review segment, our panel discusses the upcoming midterm elections, the current state of the Republican and Democratic parties, and the potential field of future presidential candidates. They also examine Dr. Merrill Matthews’ latest column in The Hill, which argues that President Trump’s recent speech simultaneously undermined confidence in the integrity of U.S. elections while refuting President Biden’s false accusations. Finally, they discuss Lynn Schmidt’s recent column on the Trump administration’s approach to Americans with disabilities and the implications for disability rights.

Chapters

00:00 Midterm Election Outlook

05:58 Key House Races and Redistricting

09:46 The Road to 2028

12:03 Attorney General Nomination

13:58 Election Integrity and Disability Rights

17:30 Whit Ayres on the Midterms

21:57 Why Polling Has Changed

27:37 Affordability and the Political Message

30:34 The Changing American Electorate

33:37 The Republican Party in 2028

40:46 Guardrails for Democracy

Links

Ep. 6 - Peace Through Strength with Dr. Nicholas Rostow & Greg Wilson

Our Republican Legacy — Sat, 18 Jul 2026 17:48:35 GMT

In this episode, hosts Chris Vance, Lynn Schmidt, and Dr. Merrill Matthews are joined by two distinguished guests: Dr. Nicholas Rostow, Distinguished Research Professor at the National Defense University, former Special Assistant for National Security Affairs to Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush, and ORL’s Vermont State Chair; and Greg Wilson, former Deputy Assistant Secretary at the U.S. Treasury Department under Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush and Senior Advisor to ORL.

Together, they discuss the principles of peace through strength, America’s role in the world, the importance of NATO and our international alliances, and how military readiness and American credibility influence global security. They also reflect on the foreign policy legacy of Senator Lindsey Graham and examine the challenges facing U.S. leadership in an increasingly uncertain world.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Peace Through Strength and the Podcast

01:26 Meet the Panel: Experts on National Security and Foreign Policy

04:02 The Origins of the Republican Party and Its Principles

05:47 The Link Between Foreign Policy and Economic Stability

07:11 U.S. Support for Ukraine and Global Security

08:00 Ukraine as a Test of the International Order

09:34 The Threat of Nuclear Proliferation and Russia’s Ambitions

11:54 U.S.-Ukraine Nuclear Agreements and Security Commitments

12:50 The Role of U.S. Foreign Policy in the Bigger Global Picture

13:21 The Impact of Trump’s Foreign Policy on International Alliances

14:16 Freedom of Navigation and the Law of the Sea

17:54 U.S. Defense Spending and Military Readiness

20:44 The Constitution and Presidential War Powers

22:02 Congressional Authority and War Declarations

24:50 The Importance of NATO and U.S. Commitment

29:23 The Legacy of Senator Lindsey Graham

37:50 Graham’s Bipartisan Efforts and Foreign Policy Legacy

43:41 The Post-Trump Republican Party and Future Challenges

44:42 Do Americans Care About Foreign Policy?

45:56 The Biggest Foreign Policy Challenges for the U.S.

47:40 Restoring U.S. Credibility and Alliances

48:18 The Role and Goals of U.S. Foreign Policy

49:05 The Threat of War and Global Instability

50:16 Peace Through Strength in Modern America

51:47 Deterrence and U.S. Global Leadership

Links

Ep. 5 - Rep. Mickey Edwards

Our Republican Legacy — Sat, 11 Jul 2026 11:00:00 GMT

In this episode, one of Our Republican Legacy’s founding members, former Oklahoma Congressman Mickey Edwards, joins Senior Advisor Chris Vance and Texas State Chair Merrill Matthews to reflect on conservatism, why he became an independent, the future role of political parties, and the need for the Republican Party to return to core principles.

In our week-in-review segment, our panel, including new faces Virginia State Chair Linda de Seife and Florida State Chair Jake Walsh, discusses current political developments, foreign policy, Supreme Court decisions, the state of play in swing states, and the future of the Republican Party.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Republican Legacy Podcast

01:00 Panel Discussion: State Chairs Introductions

02:57 Foreign Policy Under Trump: A Roller Coaster Ride

09:06 Generational Perspectives on Foreign Policy

11:01 Supreme Court's Stance on Birthright Citizenship

14:13 The Intellectual Legacy of the Republican Party

18:59 Political Landscape in Key States: Virginia, Florida, Texas

26:24 Partisan Solidarity and Its Consequences

29:18 The Changing Landscape of Political Parties

31:51 Teaching Principles to the Next Generation

34:38 Bipartisanship and the Role of Parties

36:59 The Future of the Republican Party Post-Trump

Links

Ep. 4 - Gov. Marc Racicot

Our Republican Legacy — Sat, 27 Jun 2026 17:18:08 GMT

In this episode, Our Republican Legacy’s Co-Chair, former Montana Governor and former RNC Chair Marc Racicot, joins Senior Advisor Chris Vance and Missouri State Chair Lynn Schmidt to discuss why he joined Our Republican Legacy (ORL), expressing concerns about the current political culture and the importance of adhering to constitutional values. He reflects on his extensive political career, emphasizing the need for humility and collaboration in governance. Racicot highlights the unique challenges faced by rural communities, the shifting political landscape, and the implications of military actions on domestic and international law. He concludes with a hopeful outlook for future elections and the potential for restoring sanity in politics.

In our week-in-review segment, our panel discusses the rise of Democratic Socialism within the Democratic Party and its implications for the Republican Party. They explore regional perspectives on Democratic Socialism, the appeal of new leadership, and reflect on patriotism and the qualities needed in political leaders.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to The Republican Legacy Podcast

01:01 The Rise of Democratic Socialism

04:17 Regional Perspectives on the Democratic Party

06:12 The Appeal of New Leadership

11:24 Preview of Interview with Governor Marc Racicot

13:44 Reflections on Patriotism and Leadership

18:55 Looking Ahead: The Future of the Republican Party

20:53 Introduction of Gov. Marc Racicot

23:47 Concerns about Political Culture

26:30 Lessons from a Political Career

29:10 Challenges in Rural America

31:50 Voter Sentiment and Political Change

34:46 Military Use and Constitutional Concerns

37:32 Looking Ahead: Hope for the Future

Links

Ep. 3 - Rep. Charlie Dent

Our Republican Legacy — Sat, 20 Jun 2026 20:03:20 GMT

In this episode, Our Republican Legacy’s Co-Chair, former Rep. Charlie Dent (R-PA), joins Senior Advisor Chris Vance and Missouri State Chair Lynn Schmidt to discuss why he joined Our Republican Legacy (ORL), emphasizing the need to refocus the Republican Party on its core principles. He expresses concerns about the current state of the party, particularly the shift towards loyalty to individual leaders rather than adherence to foundational values. Dent highlights the challenges of bipartisan cooperation in Congress and the importance of building a grassroots movement to support principled center-right Republicans. He also shares insights from his work at the Aspen Institute, where he fosters relationships among members of Congress to promote effective governance amidst increasing polarization.

In our week-in-review segment, our panel discusses economic concerns, the implications of the Iran deal, and the importance of bipartisanship. They reflect on the role of moderate Republicans, the impact of Trump's presidency on foreign policy, and the challenges facing the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries. The conversation also touches on generational perspectives on free enterprise and conservation issues and concludes by focusing on core Republican principles.

Chapters

00:54 Economic Concerns and Federal Reserve Decisions

01:48 Iran: A Disastrous Memorandum of Understanding

03:07 Interview Insights with Congressman Charlie Dent

04:16 The Role of Moderate Republicans

05:59 Bipartisanship in American Politics

07:20 The Impact of Iran on U.S. Foreign Policy

10:55 Republican National Security Policy in Question

13:02 Generational Perspectives on Foreign Policy

15:35 The Importance of Deterrence in Foreign Policy

17:11 Trump's Birthday Spectacle and Political Branding

21:22 Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Industry Challenges

23:59 Free Enterprise and Young Voter Perspectives

26:23 Positive Developments in Global Affairs

28:02 Conservation and Public Land Issues

29:35 Closing Thoughts on Republican Principles

30:40 Why Dent Joined Our Republican Legacy

32:51 Concerns Within the Republican Party

35:12 The Future of Center-Right Politics

39:17 Challenges in Congressional Deal-Making

46:11 Understanding Congress and Its Members

53:35 The Role of the Aspen Institute

Links

Ep. 2 – Sen. John Danforth

Our Republican Legacy — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 19:11:05 GMT

In this episode, Our Republican Legacy’s founder Senator John Danforth joins Senior Advisor Chris Vance, and Missouri State Chair Lynn Schmidt to discuss the origins of Our Republican Legacy, its core principles, and the importance of restoring responsible conservatism in America. He discusses the party's history, current challenges, and the need for civility and faith in politics.

In our week-in-review segment, the panel is joined by Steven Willing, Our Republican Legacy’s California State Chair, to discuss the top stories of the week with a special focus on the results of the Primary Elections in California.

They discuss the current state of the Republican Party, focusing on the recent California primary results, the ongoing claims of voter fraud, and the implications for the party's future. The conversation highlights the fragmentation within the party, the challenges posed by extremist candidates, and the need for a return to traditional Republican values. The panel emphasizes the importance of leadership and integrity, and the need for fresh ideas to move the party forward.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to The Republican Legacy Podcast

02:06 The Need for a Responsible Conservative Party

09:44 Core Principles of Our Republican Legacy

15:37 Fiscal Responsibility and National Debt

17:37 The Importance of Free Enterprise

19:45 Peace Through Strength: A Republican Principle

24:47 Advice for Young Republicans

26:45 Faith, Civility, and Politics

29:50 Week-in-Review Introduction

30:22 Introduction of California State Chair Steve Willing

31:10 California Primary Insights

32:38 Voter Fraud Claims and Their Impact

40:58 Bill Pulte DNI Fiasco

43:14 Primary Elections Check-in

44:15 Moderation vs. Extremism in Candidates

47:23 Sen. Danforth Conversation Review

49:43 Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

Links

Introducing The Republican Legacy Podcast

Our Republican Legacy — Sun, 07 Jun 2026 21:22:15 GMT

In the inaugural episode of The Republican Legacy podcast, the official podcast of Our Republican Legacy (OurRepublicanLegacy.com), hosts Chris Vance, Lynn Schmidt, Merrill Matthews, and Tommy Whiteley introduce the organization and its mission to restore the Republican Party to its core values.

The conversation explores their personal journeys to the organization, the impact of Donald Trump on the party, and the importance of accountability and messaging. The group discusses the need to return to core principles, the role of opinion writing in shaping public discourse, and the challenges facing the Republican Party, particularly in engaging younger voters and addressing contemporary issues such as AI regulation.

In this conversation, the speakers discuss the shifting political landscape, with a particular focus on young voters' engagement and the authenticity they seek in political figures. They explore the economic concerns that dominate the minds of younger generations, such as housing and affordability, while contrasting these with the identity politics that seem to resonate less with them.

The discussion also touches on the future of the Republican Party, the importance of returning to traditional values, and the potential for a new generation of leaders to emerge. Ultimately, the hosts express both optimism and concern for the future of American politics, emphasizing the need for genuine engagement and fiscal responsibility.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to The Republican Legacy Podcast

03:07 The Call for Traditional Republican Values

06:03 Personal Journeys to Our Republican Legacy

08:48 Moments of Realization and Commitment

12:04 The Role of Messaging and Mobilization

14:47 Addressing Corruption and Accountability

17:51 The Importance of Opinion Writing

20:47 The Future of the Republican Party and Young Leaders

27:23 The Authenticity Factor in Politics

30:18 Economic Concerns of Young Voters

33:24 Identity Politics vs. Economic Issues

35:06 Engaging Young Voters with Traditional Republicanism

39:03 The Future of the Republican Party

45:46 Optimism and Concerns for America's Future

Links